In a world of constant change, it's hard to imagine the difference one organisation can make over 150 years.
Yet here in Southland, the legacy of The Y Southland, or the YMCA, lives on through generations of people, families and communities. It's reflected in confident young leaders, lifelong friendships, camp memories, community connections, and the countless people whose lives have been shaped by its programmes, opportunities and support.
This October, The Y Southland celebrates 150 years since the Invercargill YMCA was established in 1876. Rather than simply looking back on its history, the organisation is marking the milestone by shining a light on the people who have helped create it through the "150 Faces of the Y" campaign.
Each face represents a unique story, but together they tell a much bigger one: the story of a community organisation that has been part of Southlanders' lives for generations. Community Trust South is proud to celebrate an organisation that has helped make so many of those stories possible.
When people think about The Y they will likely each have a different perspective.
For some, it is a place of health and fitness. For others, it is youth development programmes, education pathways, outdoor adventure experiences, recreation opportunities or leadership programmes. Many simply remember it as a place where they felt supported, encouraged and that they belonged.
Behind those connections are generations of staff, volunteers, mentors and community champions committed to empowering young people and strengthening communities.
Community Trust South's longstanding partnership with The Y is built on a shared commitment to supporting thriving communities and creating opportunities for rangatahi. Over the years, Community Trust South has supported projects including the redevelopment of the Omaui outdoor education facilities, stadium upgrades, and youth development and leadership programmes that continue to make a meaningful difference across Southland.
Community Trust South Chief Executive Jackie Flutey says reaching 150 years of service is an extraordinary achievement, made even more remarkable by the lives The Y has influenced throughout that time.
"The Y Southland offers something for everyone, and sometimes everything for someone," says Mrs Flutey.
"It is an organisation that wholeheartedly backs our rangatahi, stepping alongside them to help unlock their potential and supporting them to overcome barriers that may stand in their way. At Community Trust South, we are committed to supporting people and places that enhance communities so everyone can lead fulfilling lives. That's exactly what The Y Southland has been doing for 150 years."
The 150 Faces of the Y exhibition will open at The Y Southland with a free community afternoon on Friday 16 October from 3pm to 6pm, celebrating people whose stories form part of the organisation's remarkable legacy. The exhibition will also be open for viewing on Monday 19 and Tuesday 20 October.
Community Trust South encourages Southlanders to visit the exhibition to celebrate the extraordinary legacy of an organisation that has helped shape our region for 150 years.
On behalf of Community Trust South, congratulations to The Y Southland on 150 years of empowering young people, strengthening communities and helping Southlanders thrive. Thank you for being something for everyone, and perhaps everything for someone.
